VALORANT Patch 13.02 is now live, bringing a small but notable update to Riot Games’ tactical shooter. The July 28 patch focuses on Phoenix, the Retake game mode, and several bug fixes across agents and maps.
Unlike some recent updates, Patch 13.02 does not introduce major balance changes across the roster. Instead, Riot has made a targeted adjustment to Phoenix while addressing several issues affecting gameplay.
Phoenix Ultimate Nerf in VALORANT Patch 13.02
The biggest gameplay change in VALORANT Patch 13.02 affects Phoenix.
Riot has increased the cost of Phoenix’s Run It Back ultimate from six Ultimate Points to seven. According to Riot, the change is intended to reduce how frequently Phoenix can use his ultimate and bring its availability more in line with other agents.
Riot also stated that it is generally happy with Phoenix’s current balance. This means the change is more of a targeted adjustment than a major rework.
For Phoenix players, collecting Ultimate Points and managing them effectively will now be slightly more important during matches.
Split, Corrode and Lotus Added to Retake
Patch 13.02 also expands VALORANT’s Retake game mode.
The maps Split, Corrode and Lotus have been added to the Retake map pool. This gives players more locations to experience the fast-paced mode and adds greater variety to its rotation.
Meanwhile, Riot has delayed the release of AROS: Replication. The developer says it is still targeting a future release and will share more information when available.
Deadlock Gets a Bug Fix
Despite the original patch title suggesting Deadlock changes, there is no Deadlock balance adjustment in Patch 13.02.
Instead, Riot fixed an unusual bug involving Deadlock’s Annihilation and Omen’s From the Shadows. The interaction could incorrectly capture Omen and result in an extremely high damage value.
The patch also includes fixes for agents including Omen, KAY/O, Cypher, Gekko, Reyna, Chamber, Waylay, Jett, Raze and Vyse.
VALORANT Patch 13.02: Key Changes
Patch 13.02 is a relatively small update. Phoenix’s ultimate now requires seven points, three maps join Retake, AROS: Replication has been delayed, and several gameplay bugs have been addressed.
For competitive and casual players, the Phoenix change is the most important gameplay adjustment to watch following the July 28 update.
